Chitrakoot at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Uttar Pradesh |
| Famous For | Ramayana, Pilgrimage, Temples |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Hindi |
| Nearest Airport | Khajuraho Airport (HJR), 175km from city |
| Nearest Railway | Chitrakoot Dham Karwi (CKTD) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹20+ (varies) |
| Best For | pilgrims and nature and adventure seekers |
Chitrakoot: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Chitrakoot is a town of religious, cultural and historical importance, situated on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its association with the Hindu epic Ramayana, as it is believed to be where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent eleven and a half years of their exile.
Plan at least two days to explore the major sites. It's best to arrive by train or bus, as the nearest airport is quite far. Local transport mainly consists of auto-rickshaws.
Chitrakoot: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ramghat | Open 24 hours | Free | Evening for the Ganga Aarti | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Sati Anusuya Temple | 08:00-18:00 daily | Free | Morning | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Bharat Milap Temple | 06:00-20:00 daily | Free | Morning or evening | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Chitrakoot: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Chitrakoot: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Chitrakoot Dham Karwi (CKTD) — Main railway station connecting to major cities. Located about 8 km from Chitrakoot.
- From Delhi: 10-12 hours (₹800-1500)
- From Mumbai: 24-26 hours (₹1200-2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Chitrakoot: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Khajuraho Airport (HJR), 175km from city
- Delhi: 1.5 hours (₹3000-5000)
- Mumbai: 3 hours (₹5000-8000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3000
directions_bus Bus to Chitrakoot: Services & Timings
- From Allahabad: 4-5 hours (₹300-500)
- From Khajuraho: 5-6 hours (₹400-600)
Trains more comfortable, but buses are more frequent.
Best Time to Visit Chitrakoot: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 20-30 degrees C | The weather is perfect for exploring temples and participating in the Kamadgiri | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: July to September | 25-35 degrees C | The monsoon season offers a unique, less crowded experience with the landscape a | Be prepared for occasional disrupti |
| Avoid: April to June | 35-45 degrees C | Avoid visiting during these months due to the intense heat. The high temperature | If you must visit, stay hydrated an |
Peak season note: Expect higher prices and more crowds, especially during festivals. Book accommodation and transportation in advance.
2-Day Chitrakoot Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Kamadgiri Parikrama
Kamadgiri is the sacred hill around which the main part of Chitrakoot is situated. The Parikrama is a 5 km circumambulation of the…
💡 Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat. You can hire a palanquin if you are una
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Ramghat
Ramghat is a series of ghats on the banks of the Mandakini River, where Lord Rama is believed to have bathed. It is a hub of activ…
💡 Tip: Bargain for the boat ride prices. The evening Aarti is a must-see.
📍 Hanuman Dhara
Hanuman Dhara is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on a hilltop. A natural spring flows from the rocks, believed to have…
💡 Tip: Hire a palanquin if you have difficulty climbing. The views from the top are worth the effort.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Sati Anusuya Temple
Sati Anusuya Temple is dedicated to Anusuya, the wife of Sage Atri. It is believed that the Mandakini River originated here due to…
💡 Visit the nearby Sphatik Shila, a rock believed to bear the footprints of Lord Rama and Sita.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🪨 Gupt Godavari Caves
Gupt Godavari are two caves, one narrow and long through which a stream flows. It is believed that Lord Rama and Lakshmana held co…
💡 Bargain with the auto-rickshaw drivers for the best price.
📍 Janki Kund
Janki Kund is a place where Sita is believed to have bathed in the Mandakini River. It is a serene and peaceful spot.…
💡 Visit during the early morning for a peaceful experience.
Top Places to Visit in Chitrakoot: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Kamadgiri Parikrama | Free | 3-4 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 2 | 📍 Ramghat | Free | 1-2 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 3 | 📍 Hanuman Dhara | Free | 2-3 hours | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 🙏 Sati Anusuya Temple | Free | 2 hours | 08:00-18:00 daily |
| 5 | 🪨 Gupt Godavari Caves | ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 07:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | 📍 Janki Kund | Free | 1 hour | Open 24 hours |
| 7 | 🙏 Bharat Milap Temple | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-20:00 daily |
📍 1. Kamadgiri Parikrama
Kamadgiri is the sacred hill around which the main part of Chitrakoot is situated. The Parikrama is a 5 km circumambulation of the hill, considered highly auspicious by devotees.
📍 Getting there: Located in the heart of Chitrakoot; easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
📍 2. Ramghat
Ramghat is a series of ghats on the banks of the Mandakini River, where Lord Rama is believed to have bathed. It is a hub of activity with sadhus, pilgrims, and vendors.
📍 Getting there: Located on the banks of the Mandakini River; easily accessible by auto-rickshaw.
📍 3. Hanuman Dhara
Hanuman Dhara is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on a hilltop. A natural spring flows from the rocks, believed to have been created by Lord Rama to quench Hanuman's thirst.
📍 Getting there: Located on a hilltop; accessible by climbing steps or hiring a palanquin.
Food & Restaurants in Chitrakoot: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Pede, Sabudana Khichdi, Thandai, Lassi
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Thalis | ₹₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Near Ramghat |
| Vegetarian dishes | ₹ (₹200-400 for two) | Near Kamadgiri |
| North Indian and Continental | ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | The Roseland Hotel |
🛺 Street Food: Ramghat Market — Chaat, Samosas, Jalebi (₹50-100 per person)
Chitrakoot Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹1500-2500/night | ₹3500+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Chitrakoot: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khajuraho | 175 km | ~4 hrs | temples, erotic art, UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Allahabad (Prayagraj) | 125 km | ~2.5–3 hrs | — |
Hotels in Chitrakoot: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Mandakini
₹800-1200/night
Near Ramghat
Shri Rajaram Niwas
₹700-1000/night
Near Kamadgiri
🏨 Mid-Range
MPSTDC Tourist Bungalow Chitrakoot
₹1500-2500/night
Near Sati Anusuya
Hotel Uma Shankar
₹1800-2800/night
Sitapur
⭐ Luxury
The Roseland Hotel
₹3500+/night
Near Jankikund
Hotel Raghunandan Palace
₹3000+/night
Raghavpur
Chitrakoot Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Fake Sadhus: Some individuals may pose as sadhus and ask for money. Be cautious and avoid giving money to strangers.
- ✓ Overcharging: Auto-rickshaw drivers may try to overcharge tourists. Negotiate the fare beforehand.
- ✓ Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Chitrakoot town.
- ✓ Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. A sim card costs around ₹200 with necessary documents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Chitrakoot
How many days are enough for Chitrakoot?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Chitrakoot. Day 1 covers Kamadgiri Parikrama and Ramghat, while Day 2 explores Sati Anusuya Temple and Gupt Godavari Caves.
What is Chitrakoot famous for?
Chitrakoot is famous for Ramayana, Pilgrimage, Temples.
What is the best time to visit Chitrakoot?
The best time to visit Chitrakoot is October to March. Pleasant and dry weather. The skies are clear, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Is Chitrakoot worth visiting?
Yes, Chitrakoot is worth visiting for Ramayana, Pilgrimage, Temples. It is especially recommended for pilgrims and nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Khajuraho.
What is the budget for a trip to Chitrakoot?
A 2-day trip to Chitrakoot costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Ramghat?
Ramghat is open Open 24 hours. Best time to visit: Evening for the Ganga Aarti.
What is the entry fee for Ramghat?
Entry fee at Ramghat: Free.
What is the dress code for Ramghat?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Ramghat.
What are the timings of Sati Anusuya Temple?
Sati Anusuya Temple is open 08:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning.
What is the entry fee for Sati Anusuya Temple?
Entry fee at Sati Anusuya Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Sati Anusuya Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Sati Anusuya Temple.
What are the timings of Bharat Milap Temple?
Bharat Milap Temple is open 06:00-20:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or evening.
What is the entry fee for Bharat Milap Temple?
Entry fee at Bharat Milap Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Bharat Milap Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Bharat Milap Temple.